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Remodeling Plumbing & Homes

remodel

What Color Kitchen Has Best Resale Value?

Really what color you have your kitchen in will all fall down to personal preference, however, on average light neutrals are popular. About 27% of survey respondents report having a white kitchen would have them more likely to buy a home while 22% would like to have a light grey kitchen. In another bold move, colors like dark blue and black also made the list of high preferences.

Do You Need a Plumber for Bathroom Renovations?

With bathroom renovations hiring a professional plumber is kind of essential to ensure a quality job with a secure working connection. Plumbers are knowledgeable of local building codes and can identify elements that need upgrades more than a novice would.

How Long Does it Take to Gut and Remodel Bathroom?

Bathroom remodels can take anywhere from 3-4 weeks but this largely determines on the size of the remodel. Larger ones will take anywhere from 4-6 weeks but in general, prepare for a remodel to take at least a month to complete.

What Does a Plumber do in Kitchen Renovation?

A kitchen renovation will involve disconnecting existing fixtures and pipes with the installation and repositioning of pipes, drains, fixtures, and hot water systems. They will supply and install bench tops and cabinetry as well. There will be installations of appliances and plumbing fittings like sinks, taps, garbage disposals, dishwashers, and water filters.

What Should You Not do in a Kitchen Remodel?

When it comes to a kitchen remodel there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that you remember the details and make sure that things like light switch plates, outlet covers, and cabinet pulls are planned for. These smaller details can be overlooked but provide a great look to your kitchen. Another thing to look out for is your floors. Many kitchens have hardwood and tile materials that can easily be damaged in a remodel job so be sure to cover them with plastic sheeting or drop cloths. Don’t skimp on appliances, you’re investing money anyways so it’s important to just get a high-quality model that will save you money from repairs in the long run. Cheaper appliances are more likely to break down and will need to be replaced sooner. Finally, make sure to leave room in the budget for unexpected costs. No matter how well you plan, there are always going to be unforeseen expenses with kitchen remodeling so make sure you set aside enough for these unexpected costs.

kitchen remodel plan

What is the Most Expensive Part of a Kitchen Remodel?

There are many factors that can contribute to the cost of a kitchen remodel, but typically, the most expensive element is the cabinets. Cabinet costs can vary greatly depending on the materials and style you choose, but high-end options can easily run into tens of thousands of dollars. Other costly items in a kitchen remodel can include appliances, countertops, and flooring. By carefully planning your budget and choosing affordable materials, you can keep your kitchen remodel costs under control.

What renovations decrease home value the most?

10 Home Renovations That Will Hurt Your Home’s Value

  • Swimming Pools or Hot Tubs
  • Room Conversions or Expansions
  • Built-In Electronics
  • Lavish Light Fixtures
  • Too Much Carpeting
  • Over-the-Top Landscaping
  • Excessive Wallpaper 
  • Bright and Bold Paint

The answer may surprise you, but some of the most popular home renovations can actually decrease your home’s value. Here are four renovations to avoid if you’re looking to maintain or increase your home’s value:

Swimming Pools

While a swimming pool may be a great addition to your family, it’s not always a selling point for potential buyers. In fact, many buyers see pools as more of a liability than an asset. This is especially true if the pool is not properly maintained. If you do have a pool, be sure to keep it clean and in good repair.

Home Offices

Home offices are becoming increasingly popular, but they may not be the best investment when it comes to selling your home. This is because home offices are often specific to the needs of the homeowner and may not be appealing to potential buyers. If you do have a home office, try to make it as neutral as possible so that it can be easily converted into another type of room, such as a bedroom or playroom.

Luxury Bathrooms

While luxury bathrooms may seem like a good idea, they’re often not worth the cost. This is because most buyers are not looking for an over-the-top bathroom; they just want a functional space that is clean and comfortable. Stick with simple designs and neutral colors when it comes to your bathroom if you want to maintain or increase your home’s value.

High-End Appliances

While high-end appliances may be tempting, they’re not always a good investment. This is because most buyers are not looking for top-of-the-line appliances; they just want ones that are functional and in good condition. Stick with mid-range appliances when it comes to your kitchen if you want to maintain or increase your home’s value.

While some popular home renovations can actually decrease your home’s value, there are plenty of others that can help increase it. Be sure to do your research before undertaking any major home improvement projects so that you can make the best decision for your family and your home.

What Adds the Most Value to a Kitchen Remodel?

One of the best ways to add value to your kitchen remodel is to invest in high-quality materials. This means choosing items that will stand the test of time in terms of both durability and style. Another great way to add value is to focus on functionality. This means creating a layout that is both convenient and efficient. Finally, consider adding some unique features or finishes that will really make your kitchen stand out. These can include things like custom cabinets, backsplashes, or lighting fixtures. By investing in quality materials and adding some unique touches, you can really increase the value of your kitchen remodel.

  • Cabinet Refacing and Refinishing
  • Update Your Kitchen Countertops
  • Modern Tile Backsplash
  • Invest in New Kitchen Appliances 
  • Don’t Forget About Kitchen Light Fixtures 
  • New Kitchen Sink and Faucet

Sanz Plumbing LLC provides quality updates to your kitchen remodel in Fort Washington, MD. Contact us at 202-793-4722 to get more ideas.

Understanding Modern Water Purification

three water filters

What is a Good Filtration System?

Since people tend to have different preferences when it comes to water filtration, there might actually be a single answer to this answer. Objectively, a good filtration system will have a good ability to effectively remove impurities. Other things to note are that it would help if it was durable, long-lasting, and easy to use. Finally, affordable options with easy replacement parts when it comes time to switch out filters are good to have.

What is the Modern Way to Purify Water?

As obvious as it is, an effective way to purify water is by boiling it. This will call for any viruses and bacteria that may be present in the water. You’ll also be able to use modern methods of water purification through filters. This is beneficial because you can potentially purify water before it comes out of your plumbing fixtures to save you from standard boiling of water. There are many different types of filters in the market today so you can pick and choose one or a combination of them to incorporate into your property. While some filers remove impurities like chlorine others can remove contaminants like lead. No matter what kind of filtration system you incorporate into your property make sure they are installed securely and correctly. You can make sure they are purifying your water well by contacting an independent testing agency to certify that it’s working. The same thing can maybe be done with a certified water treatment company or plumber.

Another way to purify water is by using ultraviolet light. You’ll often find this method being used in commercial places like hospitals or restaurants. Ultraviolet light will kill any bacteria or viruses present in the water which makes it safe to drink.

If you’re worried about your drinking water and how it may be affecting your health you definitely want to consider investing in a water purification system. As there are a lot of options consider the standard three-step system used in coffee shops and most homes to filter out single or multiple rooms. This will incorporate a sediment filter, activated carbon filter, and reverse osmosis filter. A reverse osmosis filter removes the most impurities at the micro level, while others use ultraviolet light to kill any bacteria or viruses present in the water. You may customize your filtration system to tackle any of your concerns it’s not set in stone either way. No matter which type of system you choose, make sure that it is certified to ensure that it will effectively purify your water.

Does a Whole House Water Filter Waste Water?

Whole-home filtration systems use a different process and different types of filters than RO systems use. And, while they don’t provide the ultra-filtered results that reverse osmosis does, they do an exceptional job at removing chlorine and other chemicals. They also don’t waste water in most cases

What Can Be Removed by Water Filtration?

Ultimately a number of things can be removed by water filtration depending on which filters you use. You can remove large sediments, to smaller contaminates like nitrates, heavy metals, sodium, bacteria, viruses, dissolved solids, most organic compounds, and radionuclides.

Which Water Filtration System Removes the Most Contaminants?

A reverse osmosis system is able to remove the most impurities found at the micro level. However, just using this filter may not be totally effective at other contaminants which is why it’s often used as the final or second-to-last filter in a three-step or four-step filter process.

What Are the Two Most Common Water Filtration Systems?

The two most common types of filtration systems at least for residential properties are carbon filters and reverse osmosis systems. Both are effective at removing contaminants but at different levels of filtration.

water filtration

How Long Does a Whole House Water Filter System Last?

On average a whole house water filtration system will last differently per filter. A Pre-filter will last anywhere from 2-6 months depending on the quality of your water. A carbon filter for 12 months. With the post filter lasting up to one year.

Why Does My Whole House Water Filter Get Dirty So Fast?

This is perhaps the most common question asked as far as maintaining a water filtration system. There are a few reasons as to why your filters get dirty so fast. A common reason can be because of the type of water you have in your home. As water sources are different per city you’ll see different levels of water quality in a given area. With hard water, there will be more mineral deposits in your water that will build up in the filter and cause it to clog.

Another reason could be that the filter isn’t sized properly for your home. If your filters are too small they won’t be handle the amount of water going through it and will clog fast. This can actually cause plumbing issues to develop which can lead to expensive repairs.

You may be able to avoid these issues by getting a water quality test conducted on your water before you select filtration systems. For the second issue, quite simply if you get the right size filter you’re set.

How Often Should You Wash Water Filter?

It’s typically recommended to clean your water filters every three months or more dependent on your water quality. Additionally, change it more often if your notice a decrease in water pressure or an increase in sediment in your water.

What Happens if Water Filter is Not Changed?

If you don’t replace your filters regularly then frankly you’ll have a build-up of contaminants in your filter. This can be pesticides, fluoride, bacteria, lead, and many more. Once filters clog it’ll be harder for water to pass through the system. This will decrease the flow of water and impact the water pressure inside your pipes.

Are Whole House Water Filtration Systems Worth It?

A whole house water filtration system is worth it when you’re looking to provide clean water in your system. With clean water, you’ll be preventing the formation of rust stains in your sinks, dishwashers, tubs, and toilets. You’ll also be able to have brighter, softer, and longer-lasting clothing from washing machines.

Sanz Plumbing LLC provides secure water filtration in Fort Washington, MD. Call us at 202-793-4722 to learn more.

Updating Plumbing Fixtures

plumber with tools under a sink

What Are Considered Plumbing Fixtures?

Standard plumbing fixtures can include toilets, sinks, showers, bathtubs, and faucets. With plumbing fixtures, there should be a shut-off or stop valve that’s installed in each of the water supply lines which leads to a specific fixture.

What is the Difference Between Plumbing Fixtures and Fittings?

Plumbing fixtures as mentioned before are items such as sinks, faucets, toilets, showers, etc that are used to interact with the plumbing system in the property. Plumbing fittings are the parts that connect these fixtures to one another and to the main water supply lines. Basically, plumbing facilitates the movement of water throughout the system while plumbing fixtures are the parts where the water flows out to the occupant or user.

Is a Water Closet a Plumbing Fixture?

A water closet is a plumbing fixture that is used for flushing human waste. There is a water-containing receptor such as a bowl or cistern that collects solid body waste and liquid. This is connected to a water supply and flush mechanism. It will move the waste through an exposed integral trap seal into a gravity drainage system. Water closets can be found in homes, public restrooms, and businesses.

Upgrading a Plumbing Fixture

There can be multiple reasons to upgrade a plumbing fixture. It could be that your old one is starting to show signs of wear and age and it’s time for a replacement. Or it can be simply that you wish for a change in look or features. As such, changing fixtures can be easy to do. Here are a few steps or tips that can help:

  • Turn off the water supply: This first step should be done before you begin anything else. Make sure that the water supply connected to the fixture is turned off. Without doing so you can risk a flood of water unnecessarily coming out.
  • Disconnect the old fixture: After turning off the water disconnect the old fixture. Remove any bolts and screws and then disconnect any pipes or hoses connected to the fixture.
  • Install the new fixture: Connect the new fixture to the pipes and hoses it needs. Then secure it further with bolts and screws.
  • Turn on the water: Once everything has been properly fitted and tightened you can turn the water back on to test it out. Make sure you don’t have any leaks around any openings and make the necessary adjustments to make sure the job is done. If you just leave leaks as is you risk wearing down parts such as washers prematurely.

Changing your plumbing fixtures is relatively simple to do with a few steps. If parts are more complex reach out to a professional plumber.

fixtures

What are the Five 5 Plumbing Accessories?

The main five plumbing accessories are considered to be drains, faucets, pipes, fittings, and toilets. Pipes and fittings will connect everything together to the fixture. Faucets will control the water flow and the drains will remove the wastewater. Toilets in turn will flush waste away.

Plumbing Fixture Ideas

Pipe Insulation

If you notice that your pipes repetitively freeze in the winter or sweat in the summer consider pipe insulation. It’s a relatively inexpensive way to keep pipes at a comfortable temperature, and it can also help reduce noise.

Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters are more compact and energy-efficient units or ver standard tank heaters. They only heat water when you need it so you don’t have to worry about hot water being on standby. You can install them anywhere and they are beneficial in that they will be able to lower the costs of energy bills.

Low-Flow Toilets and Faucets

If you’re looking for a way to save on water use consider low-flow toilets and faucets. They are a better option for the environment and since they use less water you’re doing your part to conserve resources. You’ll also get the perk of saving money on your water bills.

Solar Water Heater

Solar water heaters are a great way to lower your carbon footprint as they use the sun’s energy to heat water. This means no use of fossil fuels and more energy efficiency of use. Lower energy bills today.

Gray Water System

A gray water system is used to recycle household wastewater to irrigate landscaping. It’s a great way to conserve water while reducing the strain on municipal water systems. This can be very helpful to the environment while helping you to lower bills.

Rainwater Collection

Another way to reduce water bills is with rainwater collection. These systems collect rainwater from your roof and use it to irrigate your landscaping. Conserve water and reduce your environmental impact.

Green Roofs

A good way to improve your property’s energy efficiency is by installing a green roof. A green roof is a roof covered with vegetation. You’ll be able to contribute to the environment and reduce your carbon footprint. They will be able to insulate your home and keep it cool in the summer and warm in the winter while reducing stormwater runoff.

Solar Power

A solar-powered roof will use the sun’s energy to generate electricity. They will reduce reliance on fossil fuels and won’t produce greenhouse gases. They are more energy efficient which will allow you to save money on your energy bills as well.

Wind Power

Another thing to consider is wind power. They will use the wind to generate electricity and will also present greenhouse gasses and lower your carbon footprint. An energy-efficient option that will save on energy bills.

Geothermal Heating and Cooling

Geothermal heating uses the earth’s heat to cool and heat your home from tunnels of piping installed underneath the home. They are very energy efficient and don’t produce greenhouse gases.

Consider these options when you’re looking to update your plumbing fixtures to a more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly course.

Learn more about how you can improve your plumbing by getting in touch with the team at Sanz Plumbing LLC. We provide secure updates with your plumbing fixtures in Fort Washington, MD. Call 202-793-4722 to get started.